ADS-B

What is ADS-B?

ADS-B stands for Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast. Most aircraft will be required to have ADS-B Out capability by 2020. It’s really just a new way to manage air traffic; it will eventually replace radar as Air Traffic Control’s (ATC) primary tool for separating aircraft.

Do I have to comply?

Not all pilots will have to upgrade to ADS-B Out- it depends on how you use your aircraft and where you fly. The rule is that by 2020, all aircraft will be required to have ADS-B ‘Out’ equipment to fly in Class A, B and C airspace, plus Class E airspace above 10,000 feet but not below 2,500 feet.

In general you’ll need ADS-B ‘Out’ to fly to most of the places you need a Mode C transponder today.

How does ADS-B work?

ADS-B is made up of two main parts: ADS-B Out and ADS-B In.

ADS-B ‘Out’ is mandatory; ADS-B ‘In’ is optional. ‘Out’ is of interest to air traffic controllers, while ‘In’ is mostly of interest to pilots.

ADS-B ‘In’ lets you receive weather and traffic on a cockpit display, if equipped.

There are two different datalink technologies that meet the ADS-B requirement: 1090 MHz ES and 978 MHz UAT.

1090 MHz ES is the only technology accepted for use above 18,000 feet, and is the accepted technology for use outside the US. There is traffic but no weather datalink on 1090 MHz.

978 MHz is sometimes called UAT, for Universal Access Transceiver. This is only for use below 18,000 feet, and only for use within the US. There is traffic and weather datalink available on 978 MHz.

If you fly above 18,000 feet or outside the US, 1090ES is your only option. If you don’t, a 978 UAT could work.

What does it cost?

The cost to comply varies widely: a lot depends on the equipment you already have installed, and if you want just ‘Out’ or ‘In/Out’.

For ‘Out’ solutions, you need an ADS-B Out transmitter and a WAAS GPS source.

‘Out’ solutions have to be permanently installed, certified systems: ‘In’ can be a portable solution.

We will be happy to discuss your options and provide you a quote: we need to know the type of aircraft, what equipment you already have installed, where you fly, and if you want just 'Out' or 'Out/In', so give us a call or send us an email.